Balotelli has been firing blanks, Sturridge still isn't asserting himself and Gerrard is looking a little long in the tooth - those pinpoint perfect passes aren't pulsating as they used to.

Villa now find themselves in 2nd and Liverpool are already languishing 6 points from the lead. This is a bad start. Chelsea have started and haven't dropped any points yet. Everyone will need to keep in step with them if they are to have a hope of winning the title.

"Ispeak an infinite deal of nothing and I am not bound to please thee with my answers."